Melanie Leupolz is a German footballer renowned for her leadership, tactical intelligence, and consistency as a midfielder. With a decorated career across Germany, England, and now Spain, she is recognized as one of the most accomplished midfielders in women’s football.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Born on April 14, 1994, in Wangen im Allgäu, Germany, Melanie Leupolz began playing football with TSV Ratzenried and TSV Tettnang. Her talent was evident early on, and she was selected for Germany’s U15 national team as the first player from her village to achieve this milestone.
Club Career: From Germany to Real Madrid
Leupolz made her Bundesliga debut for SC Freiburg in 2011, helping the club earn promotion and quickly establishing herself as a standout midfielder. In 2014, she joined Bayern Munich, where she won back-to-back Frauen-Bundesliga titles in 2014–15 and 2015–16, making 99 league appearances and scoring 12 goals for the club.
In 2020, Leupolz signed with Chelsea in the English Women’s Super League. She made an immediate impact, winning the FA Community Shield in her first match and playing a key role in Chelsea’s league and cup successes. She scored nine goals in her debut season and helped the team reach the UEFA Women’s Champions League final.
After returning from maternity leave in early 2023, she contributed to Chelsea’s Super League and FA Cup victories. On July 3, 2024, Melanie Leupolz transferred to Real Madrid, bringing her experience and winning mentality to Liga F.
International Career: Germany’s Midfield Leader
Leupolz debuted for Germany’s senior team in 2013 and quickly became a regular, earning over 75 caps and scoring 12 goals. She was part of the squad that won the UEFA Women’s Euro 2013 and played a crucial role in Germany’s gold medal-winning run at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Leupolz also represented Germany at the 2015 and 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cups, scoring in the 2019 edition against South Africa. She announced her retirement from international football in September 2023.
Career Milestones & Special Achievements
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UEFA Women’s Euro champion with Germany (2013)
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Olympic gold medalist (2016)
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Two-time Frauen-Bundesliga champion with Bayern Munich
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FA Women’s Super League and FA Cup winner with Chelsea
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Over 250 senior club appearances across Germany, England, and Spain
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Over 75 caps and 12 goals for Germany
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Champions League finalist with Chelsea (2021)
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First Real Madrid appearance in 2024
Leupolz is praised for her leadership, consistency, and ability to perform in high-pressure matches.
Style of Play
Melanie Leupolz is a central midfielder known for her tactical awareness, passing range, and work rate. She excels at breaking up play, dictating tempo, and supporting both defense and attack. Her leadership and experience make her a key figure in any midfield.
Endorsements, Salary, and Earnings
As an established international and a marquee signing for Real Madrid, Leupolz commands a top-tier salary in Liga F and is sought after for endorsements, especially in Germany, England, and Spain.
Personal Life
Off the pitch, Leupolz is admired for her professionalism, resilience—returning to elite football after maternity leave—and her positive influence on teammates. She is committed to the growth of women’s football and serves as a role model for aspiring players.
FAQs About Melanie Leupolz
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What position does Melanie Leupolz play?
She is a central midfielder. -
Which clubs has Melanie Leupolz played for?
SC Freiburg, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, and Real Madrid. -
What are Melanie Leupolz’s top achievements?
Olympic gold medalist, UEFA Euro champion, league titles in Germany and England, Champions League finalist. -
How many appearances has she made for Germany?
Over 75 caps, with 12 goals. -
When did Melanie Leupolz join Real Madrid?
July 2024.
Conclusion
Melanie Leupolz’s journey from Wangen im Allgäu to Real Madrid and the pinnacle of international football is a testament to her talent, determination, and leadership. As she continues her career in Spain, Leupolz remains one of the most respected and accomplished midfielders in women’s football.
